WI
“Excellent value with impressive audio and smart home features”
Is the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) worth it?
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) is recommended with a 8.5/10 consensus score across 3 expert reviews. Experts highlight best alexa experience and excellent sound quality. CNET says: "The best smart speaker for most people, especially Prime members" Best for: Alexa users, Smart home beginners, Prime members.
Recommended3 Expert Reviews
Price Range
$79–$99
$79-$99 list360° audio3 expert sources
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Amazon Echo (4th Gen)
NM
Nicholas Miles · Editor-in-Chief & Methodology Owner
Smart Speakers
Expert consensus
How we score08.5/1010
3 expert sources · 3 quoted
3 quoted sources with published scores
- CNET 8.5/10
- Tom's Guide 8.5/10
- Wirecutter 9/10
Expert Consensus across 3 sources
Updated 5 days agoEditorial consensus score: SmartHomeExplorer's synthesis of the 3 published expert reviews listed on this page. Not a user rating.
“The best smart speaker for most people, especially Prime members”
Key Features
- ✓ 360° audio
- ✓ Zigbee hub
- ✓ Temperature sensor
- ✓ Ultrasound motion detection
Best For
Alexa usersSmart home beginnersPrime members
What Experts Agree On
What Experts Love
- ✓ Best Alexa experience
- ✓ Excellent sound quality
- ✓ Built-in Zigbee hub
- ✓ Temperature sensor included
- ✓ Great value for features
- ✓ Premium audio at mid-range price
Common Criticisms
- ✗ Privacy concerns with Amazon
- ✗ Limited without Prime subscription
- ✗ Spherical design divisive
- ✗ No battery option
What The Experts Say
TO
“The built-in hub makes this the smart home centerpiece”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) worth it?
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) earns a 8.5/10 consensus score across 3 expert sources and is rated "Recommended". At $79-$99, it is best for Alexa users. CNET is among the named sources behind that consensus.
How much does the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) cost?
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) is priced at $79-$99. With a 8.5/10 score from 3 expert reviews and a "Recommended" rating, that price represents strong value relative to the ~7.5/10 average for Smart Speakers products. Prices shift often, so check the live figure before buying.
Who is the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) best for?
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) is best for Alexa users, Smart home beginners, Prime members. Experts rate it "Recommended" with a 8.5/10 consensus across 3 sources.
How does the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) compare to other Smart Speakers options?
Among the Smart Speakers products we have aggregated, the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) ranks above average with a 8.5/10 score. Wirecutter adds: "Excellent value with impressive audio and smart home features"
What smart home systems does the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) work with?
The Amazon Echo (4th Gen) works with Amazon Alexa.
What are the best alternatives to the Amazon Echo (4th Gen)?
If the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) ($79-$99, 8.5/10) is not the right fit, the closest alternatives in Smart Speakers are Google Nest Audio, Apple HomePod mini, Sonos One. Compare them on price, ecosystem support, and expert consensus to find your match.
What are the pros and cons of the Amazon Echo (4th Gen)?
The main strengths of the Amazon Echo (4th Gen) are best alexa experience and excellent sound quality. The most-cited downside is privacy concerns with amazon. Overall, 3 expert sources rate it "Recommended" with a 8.5/10 consensus score.
Decided on the Amazon Echo (4th Gen)?
$79-$99 list360° audio3 expert sources
Check price →Affiliate link — we earn a commission at no extra cost to you
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Sources & Methodology
This review aggregates 3 independent expert reviews into a single consensus score. See how we build consensus scores.
Expert review sources cited on this page:
Affiliate disclosure: SmartHomeExplorer.com participates in the Amazon Associates program. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.This consensus review is based on 3 independent expert reviews — we did not test this product ourselves. Always verify current prices and availability before purchasing.
Independence notice: Smart Home Explorer is an independent publication. Amazon and other product names, logos, and brands referenced on this page are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. This review is not sponsored by, affiliated with, or endorsed by Amazon or any other manufacturer named in this article.